To coincide with reforms to occupational pensions effective from 2012, personal accounts were introduced as a high-quality pension scheme that would be open to all. What type of brand identity would resonate with a diverse audience of employees, employers and financial advisers? Our brand development research for PADA and communications agency 23RED led to the creation of NEST (National Employment Savings Trust).

At the time of research, there was no requirement for insurers to disclose the total cost of premiums over time. How would disclosure of total premiums influence consumers’ decision making? What is the most useful way to present total premiums? Our research for the ABI informed policy debate on the introduction of total premium disclosure.

Arts funding needs to reflect the needs and interests of the arts community. What are the priorities of England’s artists and arts professionals? How can this be translated into funding models that stimulate and enrich our culture? Our stakeholder research provided an in-depth analysis of these issues to complement the broader consultation process.

What impact do video games really have on young people and other gamers? Our research for the BBFC, which is responsible for classifying some games, revealed that gamers’ experiences are considerably more nuanced and reflexive than is often assumed. Our report on this project attracted international media interest and stimulated considerable debate within the industry.

Although mince is often labelled ‘lean’ or ‘extra lean’, there is no statutory limit on the fat content of minced meat. What assumptions do consumers make about the mince they buy? And what role does labelling play? Our research for the FSA informed its approach to regulation and guidance in this area.